A Research Laboratory Technician is sought in the Department of Neurology to assist the research group of Dr. Brett McCray. This laboratory studies the pathogenesis of a subtype of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), which is an inherited form of peripheral neuropathy and constitutes the most common inherited neurologic disorder worldwide. The laboratory focuses on CMT type 2C, which is caused by dominant mutations in the ion channel TRPV4 and causes weakness of the arms and legs, sensory loss, and respiratory difficulties. The laboratory studies fundamental functions of TRPV4, how mutations disrupt these functions, and potential therapeutic implications for TRPV4-targeted drugs. The ultimate goal of these pursuits is to use cell culture and animal models for development of therapeutic strategies for CMT and other neurological conditions in which nerves are damaged. The responsibilities of the individual in this position will be to assist in ongoing pursuits directed by the principal investigator and to independently pursue new projects related to the pathogenesis of TRPV4. Specific duties will include assistance with management of transgenic mouse colonies, animal drug treatments, animal behavioral testing, animal surgical procedures, animal tissue processing and histology, maintenance of cultured cells, and cellular and molecular biology experiments utilizing animal tissue and cultured cells.  

Working under the supervision of Dr. McCray and, the individual will assist and conduct experiments using a variety of techniques. These include animal husbandry and genotyping, behavioral assays, electrophysiology of peripheral nerves, perfusion, animal tissue harvest, cryosectioning, immunostaining, widefield and confocal microscopy, cell culture, transient transfection, Western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation, and immunohistochemistry, among others.

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Neuroscience, or a related field is required.
• Minimum 1 year of experience
• Proficiency with basic laboratory skills and methods (pipetting, buffer preparation, immunofluorescence and aseptic cell culture) is required. 

• Prior experience with animal husbandry, cell culture, and molecular and cellular biology techniques described above is desired.
• The ideal candidate will be highly motivated with exceptional personal initiative and communication skills.

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

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